Fig. 6: NGFR loss-of-function further heightens inflammation-induced bone resorption.

a–c NGFR deletion induced the Rankl/Opg mRNA ratio in TNF-treated cells. Vec, empty vector; sg2, CRISPR vector expressing single guide RNA 2 to mediate Ngfr deletion. Data are presented as mean values ± SD. n = 3 independent experiments. Two-way ANOVA. d, e TRAP staining and quantification of RAW264.7 cells cultured with medium conditioned by empty vector-infected or CRISPR-mediated Ngfr deletion cells. Scale bar: 80 μm. n = 3 independent experiments. Data are presented as mean values ± SD. Unpaired two-sided Student’s t-test. f, g TRAP staining and quantification of subchondral area in control and KO joints with OA. The lower edge of subchondral area is marked by the blue curves. The bottom panels are the enlargements of the upper images as indicated by the box, in order to show subchondral area in higher resolution. Arrowheads, positive TRAP staining in subchondral area. Scale bar: 100 μm. n = 7 independent experiments. Data are presented as mean values ± SD. Unpaired two-sided Student’s t-test. h, i IHC of RANKL in the osteoarthritic joints with NGFR deficiency. Scale bar: 100 μm. Data are presented as mean values ± SD. n = 5 independent experiments. Unpaired two-sided Student’s t-test. *p < 0.05, **p < 0.01, ***p < 0.001, ****p < 0.0001. Source data are provided as a Source Data file.